Final answer:
A 2-year-old with a hematoma on the forehead due to a fall should be immediately taken for emergency medical care due to the risk of a serious head injury, especially in the area of the pterion where it can lead to a life-threatening situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A hematoma on the forehead of a 2-year-old after a fall is a concerning symptom that requires immediate medical attention, especially considering the proximity to critical structures in the skull and brain. In this case, it's paramount to recognize the potential severity of head injuries in young children. Their skulls are not fully developed, and the fontanel, or the soft spot on a baby’s head, does not fully close until 9 to 18 months after birth, leaving the brain more vulnerable to injury. The pterion, a region on the lateral side of the head, is an area where a strong blow can fracture the bones and possibly damage an underlying artery, leading to the formation of a hematoma that can put dangerous pressure on the brain. Given the seriousness of head injuries, the child and his father should be reassured and advised to seek emergency medical care to rule out any serious underlying damage.